Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise apparatus and methods for modifying existing low cost “on-axis” ink jet printer systems to accommodate low intervention rate “free ink” ink supplies. Embodiments are disclosed which enable reduced intervention rates and visual ink level indication by providing a large ink container, flexible interconnect tubing, and a modified ink supply container which mounts to the printer carriage.

Abstract: An inkjet print cartridge is provided in a printer for removable installation in a carriage which typically holds a plurality of print cartridges of different color printing liquids. In order to minimize overall size of the printer and its carriage, a handle is pivotally mounted on a crown of the print cartridge to move from a down recessed position during normal printing and servicing operations to an upraised position for gripping while removing the printhead from a carriage chute. The handle forms a loop to facilitate gripping with the fingers and thumb, and in its preferred form is bendable in order to provide flexible yielding upon application of undesirable lateral or torsional forces during a removal procedure.

Abstract: An inkjet print cartridge is provided for removable installation in a carriage which typically holds a plurality of print cartridges of different color printing liquids. In order to minimize overall size of the printer and its carriage, a handle is pivotally mounted on a crown of the print cartridge to move from a down recessed position during normal printing and servicing operations to an upraised position for gripping while removing the printhead from a carriage chute. The handle forms a loop to facilitate gripping with the fingers and thumb, and in its preferred form is bendable in order to provide flexible yielding upon application of undesirable lateral or torsional forces during a removal procedure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fluidic coupling that releasably and fluidically connects to the inlet port of an inkjet print cartridge. The fluidic coupling acts as a seal for the print cartridge and a means of lubricating and protecting the inlet port from drying, leaking ink, and air ingestion while the print cartridge is in transit and in storage. The fluidic coupling also provides an auxiliary ink reservoir for the print cartridge. The fluidic coupling further provides an ink conduit to the printhead from an external ink supply. First first and second end portions define an internal chamber, the internal chamber providing an internal fluid conduit for ink between the first and second ends of the body; and a fluidic coupling affixed to the first end of the body and in fluidic communication with the internal chamber.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an inkjet pen having a fluid inlet configured for connection to a corresponding fluid outlet associated with a supply of ink. The ink-jet pen includes a printhead responsive to control signals for selectively depositing ink. Also included is a printhead housing supporting the printhead. The printhead housing has a configurable fluid inlet portion that is configured for receiving a fluid configuration portion for configuring the configurable fluid inlet portion for connection to the supply of ink. The fluid inlet portion and the fluid configuration portion each configured to have complementary interconnect portions that when press fit together mate to configure the printhead for connection to the ink supply.

Abstract: A disposable diagnostic device and method of its use are provided. The device comprises a housing containing first and second flow paths orthogonal to each other. The first flow path commences at a sample addition port and continues through a transport channel which feeds sample to an incubation area by means of capillary flow. The incubation area comprises a signal producing system and is underneath an optically-clear window. The first flow path terminates in a top waste reservoir which receives sample and wash fluid. The second flow path begins on one side of the incubation area at an inlet port over a side reagent reservoir. Liquid flows along the second flow path from the side reagent reservoir across the incubation area into the side waste reservoir. The incubation area may comprise agitation means for homogenous dispersion of reagent into liquid.

Abstract: A disposable diagnostic device and method of its use are provided. The device comprises a housing containing first and second flow paths orthogonal to each other. The first flow path commences at a sample addition port and continues through a transport channel which feeds sample to an incubation area by means of capillary flow. The incubation area comprises a signal producing system and is underneath an optically-clear window. The first flow path terminates in a top waste reservoir which receives sample and wash fluid. The second flow path begins on one side of the incubation area at an inlet port over a side reagent reservoir. Liquid flows along the second flow path from the side reagent reservoir across the incubation area into the side waste reservoir. The incubation area may comprise agitation means for homogenous dispersion of reagent into liquid.